Bao Ngoc has secured a coveted spot in the top 40 of Miss World 2026 by winning the "Asia and Oceania Top Model" title. This achievement, announced on the evening of 27/8, marks her best individual performance since the competition began.
On 27/8, Bao Ngoc joined 59 other contestants in the final round of the Top Model competition, a key segment of the Vietnam Beauty Fashion Fest. Contestants showcased their skills through three performances, presenting self-chosen outfits and collections from various fashion designers. Following the performances, results were announced by continent.
Bao Ngoc was named the winner for the Asia and Oceania region, surpassing contestants from Thailand, Cambodia, India, and Trung Quoc. According to the competition format, this victory grants her direct entry into the top 40, bypassing the need to be selected in the general pool.
The Top Model competition is a crucial part of Miss World, evaluating contestants' performance abilities and stage presence. Before reaching this decisive round, Bao Ngoc had successfully advanced through the initial round held in Hai Phong, earning her a place among the top 60 participants.
Standing at 1,86 m tall and possessing extensive experience as a vedette on domestic runways, Bao Ngoc was considered a strong contender for this segment. The beauty pageant website Sash Factor had previously ranked her as the top favorite to win the title.
Other contestants who secured spots in the top 40 through the fashion segment include representatives from Nigeria (Africa), France (Europe), and the Dominican Republic (Americas and Caribbean). Earlier, the organizers had announced the first six contestants to advance by winning the sports challenge, talent segment, and Head to Head Challenge.
Bao Ngoc, 25 years old, is originally from Can Tho. She graduated with honors in Business Administration from International University, Vietnam National University TP HCM. She was the first runner-up at Miss World Vietnam 2022 and was crowned Miss Intercontinental in the same year.
Over two weeks into the 73rd Miss World competition, Bao Ngoc has maintained strong performances across various challenges. She and her teammates won the cooking challenge, made it to the top 23 in the talent segment with a lithophone performance, and reached the top 20 in the Head to Head Challenge. During side activities, Bao Ngoc also gained attention for her English communication skills, often assisting and connecting with international contestants.
The competition runs from 8/8 to 5/9, spanning three provinces: Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, and Khanh Hoa. On 12/8, 111 contestants, dressed in ao dai, participated in the opening ceremony at a square in Ha Long City. In Do Son, contestants engaged in planting mangrove forests, crabbing, fishing, and kayaking. Upon arriving in Nha Trang City, they participated in a street parade, ran to support breast cancer patients, and experienced traditional craft villages and local cuisine.
First held in 1951, Miss World is one of the two largest and oldest beauty pageants globally, alongside Miss Universe. The pageant celebrates global unity by seeking young women with beauty, education, and meaningful community projects. After 72 seasons, the competition is being held in Vietnam for the first time, organized by Sen Vang company in collaboration with the Miss World Organization. The final will take place at 2/4 Square, Nha Trang City, on the evening of 5/9, featuring 111 contestants.
Tan Cao
Photos and videos: Organizers
